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to save somebody by the bell
01
* (of a boxer) saved from a knockout by the ringing of a gong signaling the end of a round
02
to unexpectedly provide someone with help when they face a danger or difficulty
Idiom
Informal
What is the origin of the idiom "saved by the bell" and when to use it?
The idiom "saved by the bell" has its origins in the world of boxing, where a boxer who is in a difficult or dangerous situation may be saved from a potential knockout by the ringing of the bell to signal the end of a round. This expression is often used to describe narrowly avoiding trouble or disaster through timely intervention.
Examples
I was saved by the bell otherwise my father was about to uncover what I had done.
